A statement from the Degodia community released on April 10, 2019 insisted that the Wajir community consulted with DP Ruto on their own.

“The decision had nothing to do with the ODM party or any of its functionaries, as some would allege….We, as leaders from the region do not condone deceit and/or conmanship.

“The efforts of the community cannot be taken for granted or rubbished by those who do not know the hours, energy and resources put in this,” the statement from the political and business leaders said.

On his part, Prof. Yusuf echoed the sentiments of this community leaders deciding to announce that he had defected to the Jubilee party.

Interestingly, he made the announcement after a meeting at the DP’s Karen on April 9, 2019.

Two other candidates – Ali Noor Abdi (Labour Party of Kenya) and Abass Nonow Shihaw (Agano Party) – apparently also agreed to step down and support the Jubilee flag bearer after meeting DP Ruto.